PowerFlex, a provider of solar, storage, and EV charging solutions, has installed 415 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) for DHL Express, a provider of international shipping services.
Equipped with PowerFlex X energy management software, the chargers optimize charging activities while integrating with DHL’s telematics platforms for efficient EVSE operations. The initiative reflects DHL’s commitment to sustainability, as the company works towards fleet electrification to reduce its climate impact and promote eco-friendly operations.
PowerFlex, known for its intelligent solar, storage, and EV charging solutions, has recently completed the installation of 415 EVSE for DHL Express.
DHL, the world’s leading provider of international express shipping services, aims to embrace sustainability by electrifying its fleet and reducing its environmental footprint. The chargers were strategically placed across DHL service center facilities in major U.S. markets.
The installation features PowerFlex X, an energy management software that actively monitors, tracks, and reports on charging activities.
By integrating with DHL’s telematics platforms, the software optimises the operations of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). This ensures efficient utilisation of the chargers and enhances DHL’s ability to manage its electric vehicle fleet effectively.
DHL’s commitment to sustainability is highlighted by its ambitious zero-emissions target, making it the first logistics company to do so. The electrification of their fleet is a crucial step towards achieving their green logistics plan and reducing their overall climate impact.
DHL Express US network operations SVP Laurice Bancroft said: “At DHL Express, we are always looking for ways to make our operations more sustainable.
“Fleet electrification is one of the many strategies we’ve deployed to reduce our carbon footprint as we work toward our goal of zero-emissions. We selected PowerFlex to complete our EV charging stations because of their deep industry experience that helped us find a creative solution to meet our EV fleet charging needs.
“We look forward to scaling up our EV fleet and ensuring reliable, eco-friendly deliveries to our customers.”
PowerFlex initially collaborated with DHL in 2020 to complete the first installation, customising subsequent projects to align with DHL’s daily delivery operations. The charging stations were strategically positioned overhead, allowing easy accessibility for drivers to plug in at the end of the day while avoiding obstruction to vehicle movement.
After analysing the logistical needs of each fleet depot, PowerFlex recommended Level 2 (L2) charging stations for installation. L2 chargers are known for their reliability, affordability, and lower power consumption compared to Level 3 DC Fast Chargers. This choice ensures efficient charging while minimizing the strain on the electrical infrastructure.
PowerFlex’s L2 chargers are equipped with Adaptive Load Management (ALM), an intelligent energy management software that optimises power usage across the charger network. ALM helps to balance energy demand, preventing costly spikes and enabling double the number of chargers to be installed without overloading the existing power grid.
In addition to the installation, PowerFlex provided DHL with a comprehensive suite of services, including site feasibility assessments, turnkey design and installation, hardware and software solutions, as well as asset management and operations and maintenance services.
PowerFlex CEO Raphael Declercq said: “DHL is taking a thoughtful approach to adopt new ‘fueling’ for its business needs and exploring the possibilities offered by in-house EV charging.
“We are proud to work with DHL to support their fleet electrification. PowerFlex’s team understands the critical importance of ensuring that last-mile delivery vans are fully charged to support on-time deliveries while meeting DHL’s fleet sustainability goals.”
